Even toddlers can become targets of identity thieves. Identity thieves know the advantage of targeting a youngster: The child and parents might not realize a crime has occurred for years, until the child tries to get a driver’s license or applies for a credit card.

It is important for parents to safeguard a child’s information.

• Do not disclose a child’s Social Security number or supply a copy of a birth certificate unless absolutely necessary, - such as for school records or income tax returns.
• Before providing personal information to a third party, such as a doctor’s office, ask how it will be protected.
• Do not let a child carry his or her Social Security card in a wallet or purse.
• Keep an eye out for credit card offers or other mailings to your child. They might be an early signal of identity theft.

If you’re concerned that your child might be a victim of identity theft, request a free credit report. You can request a free report once a year form each of the three major credit-reporting companies, but you must do it by mail for children under age 13. For more information, go to www.annualcreditreport.com the website operated by the three credit-reporting companies. You can also request a free copy of your own credit report there.